20+ Best Travel Credit Cards India 2025 - Compare & Apply (original) (raw)
Updated On 24 January, 2025
Travel credit cards are tailored to the needs of frequent travelers. These credit cards offer benefits such as complimentary access to airport lounges, 24×7 concierge service, and insurance benefits. They not only make the cardholder’s travel experience smoother and more comfortable but also, in most cases, offer a higher reward rate on travel-related expenses like flight bookings and hotel/stay reservations. Many travel credit cards earn rewards in the form of AirMiles, which can be redeemed for air ticket bookings, award flights (free flights), or class upgrades with partner airlines.
Travel credit cards are typically offered in collaboration with an airline, an online travel portal, or a hotel/resort chain. These co-branded credit cards often provide higher rewards for spending with partner airlines or travel portals. Additionally, you can often enjoy exclusive benefits such as complimentary membership in the partner airline’s frequent flyer program or bonus AirMiles upon reaching specific spend-based milestones with these co-branded travel credit cards. Examples of co-branded travel cards include the Ka-Ching, Emirates, and Etihad Co-Branded Credit Cards. Previously, Vistara credit cards were a very rewarding and popular offering, but they have now been discontinued due to the merger with Air India.
While most travel rewards credit cards are offered in collaboration with an airline or travel portal, some travel cards are more generic and are suitable for travelers in general without providing additional benefits for spending with a particular airline or travel portal. Two significant examples of such generic travel credit cards are the American Express Platinum Travel and the Axis Atlas Credit Card.
Table of Contents
- Generic Travel Credit Cards:
- Axis Bank Atlas Credit Card
- American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card
- SBI Card MILES PRIME
- SBI Card Miles Elite
- RBL World Safari Credit Card
- Axis Bank Horizon Credit Card
- Travel Platform Co-Branded Credit Cards:
- MakeMyTrip ICICI Bank Credit Card
- ixigo AU Credit Card
- Adani One ICICI Bank Platinum Credit Card
- Adani One Signature Credit Card
- Yatra SBI Credit Card
- Mariott Co-Branded Credit Card:
- Marriott Bonvoy HDFC Bank Credit Card
- IRCTC Co-Branded Credit Cards:
- IRCTC RuPay SBI Credit Card
- HDFC Bank RuPay IRCTC Credit Card
- IRCTC BOBCARD Credit Card
- IRCTC RBL Bank Credit Card
- Airlines Co-Branded Credit Cards:
- KrisFlyer SBI Card Apex
- KrisFlyer SBI Credit Card
- 6E Rewards XL – IndiGo HDFC Bank Credit Card
- 6E Rewards – IndiGo HDFC Bank Credit Card
List of Best Travel Credit Cards
If you fully understand the benefits of travel credit cards and need one, you can choose from our list. Depending on your requirements and expectations for a travel credit card, here are some of the best credit cards currently available in the Indian credit card market.
Generic Travel Credit Cards:
Axis Bank Atlas Credit Card
Add to Compare
(4.5/5)
Joining Fee
Rs. 5,000 + GST
Renewal Fee
Rs. 5,000 + GST
Reward Type
Reward Points
Welcome Benefits
2,500 Edge Miles on Completing 1 Transaction Within 30 Days of Card Issuance
Card Details +
Axis Bank Atlas Credit Card is a travel-focused card that is best suited for people who travel often. With an annual fee of ₹5,000, it offers rewards and benefits in three tiers: Silver, Gold, and Platinum. It offers various exclusive privileges across different categories, as well as travel. Following are some of the premium benefits offered with this card:
- Up to 5 EDGE Miles on every spend of ₹100.
- Up to 18 complimentary domestic lounge visits every year.
- Up to 12 complimentary international lounge visits every year.
American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card
Add to Compare
(4.6/5)
Joining Fee
₹5,000 + GST
Renewal Fee
₹5,000 + GST
Best Suited For
Travel | Shopping
Reward Type
Reward Points
Welcome Benefits
10,000 Membership Rewards Points
Card Details +
It is a premium travel credit card by American Express and comes loaded with a plethora of travel benefits. It is definitely one of the best travel credit cards in India in the premium segment. Some of the travel benefits that come bundled with the American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card are as under-.
- 4 complimentary domestic airport lounge visits every year (one per quarter) and complimentary membership of the Priority Pass lounge program.
- Upon achieving the stipulated spending milestones, you will receive vouchers from leading hotel chains, such as the Taj SeleQtions and Vivanta hotels.
SBI Card MILES PRIME
Add to Compare
(4.5/5)
Joining Fee
Rs. 2,999 + GST
Renewal Fee
Rs. 2,999 + GST
Reward Type
Reward Points
Welcome Benefits
Get 3,000 Travel Credits on spending ₹60,000 within 60 days of issuance.
Card Details +
The SBI Card MILES PRIME is a solid mid-tier option for frequent travelers looking for a mix of rewards, lounge access, and travel benefits at a relatively affordable joining fee of ₹2,999. It offers 3,000 Travel Credits as a welcome benefit upon spending ₹60,000 within the first 60 days, and users can earn additional Travel Credits for spending on travel and other purchases, which can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and catalog items. This card also includes eight complimentary domestic lounge visits and four international lounge visits per year, plus a two-year Priority Pass membership, making travel more comfortable. Additionally, it provides key travel insurance benefits like coverage for lost baggage, flight cancellations, and air accident protection.
SBI Card Miles Elite
Add to Compare
(4.6/5)
Joining Fee
Rs. 4,999 + GST
Renewal Fee
Rs. 4,999 + GST
Reward Type
Reward Points
Welcome Benefits
5,000 Travel Credits
Card Details +
The SBI Card Miles Elite is a premium travel credit card that brings a range of valuable perks to frequent travelers. With a joining fee of ₹4,999, the card offers an attractive welcome benefit of 5,000 Travel Credits upon spending ₹1 lakh within the first 60 days, which can be redeemed for up to ₹5,000 on travel expenses. Designed for seamless travel rewards, it provides 6 Travel Credits per ₹200 spent on travel and 2 Travel Credits per ₹200 on other expenses, valid for two years. The card also offers extensive lounge access—eight domestic visits and six international lounge visits annually, plus a Priority Pass membership.
RBL World Safari Credit Card
Add to Compare
(4.3/5)
Joining Fee
Rs. 3,000 + GST
Renewal Fee
Rs. 3,000 + GST
Reward Type
Reward Points
Welcome Benefits
MakeMyTrip voucher worth Rs. 3,000 as a welcome gift
Card Details +
The World Safari credit card is a premium travel card offered by RBL Bank. It comes with a range of travel benefits, including a MakeMyTrip voucher worth Rs. 3,000 as a welcome benefit, a 0% mark-up fee on all foreign currency transactions, and the ability to earn Travel Points on all spending categories, which can be redeemed for flight and hotel bookings. Additionally, cardholders receive two complimentary domestic airport lounge visits per quarter and two complimentary international lounge passes annually as part of the Priority Pass membership.
Axis Bank Horizon Credit Card
Add to Compare
(4.6/5)
Joining Fee
Rs. 3,000 + GST
Renewal Fee
Rs. 3,000 + GST
Reward Type
Reward Points
Welcome Benefits
5000 EDGE Miles on Spends of ₹1,000 Within the First 30 Days of Card Issuance
Card Details +
The Axis Bank Horizon Credit Card is an ideal choice for travelers looking for a mid-range card with robust travel benefits and high reward rates. With a joining and renewal fee of ₹3,000, the card is designed to offer value through its 5 EDGE Miles per ₹100 on airline and Axis Travel Edge bookings, translating to a 5% reward rate for these expenses. Cardholders also benefit from generous lounge access, with up to eight domestic and international visits per quarter, depending on the card variant. Rewards can be redeemed through Travel Edge or converted to partner points for hotel and airline loyalty programs, offering flexibility for travelers to maximize their benefits.
Travel Platform Co-Branded Credit Cards:
MakeMyTrip ICICI Bank Credit Card
Add to Compare
(4.6/5)
Joining Fee
₹999 + GST
Renewal Fee
₹999 + GST
Reward Type
Reward Points
Welcome Benefits
₹1,000 MMT Voucher and MMTBLACK Gold Tier Membership
Card Details +
The MakeMyTrip ICICI Bank Credit Card is an ideal choice for frequent travelers who use MakeMyTrip to book flights, hotels, and other travel services. With an annual fee of ₹999, this card offers substantial travel-related benefits, including a ₹1,000 welcome voucher, complimentary MMTBLACK Gold Membership, and rewards in the form of myCash for every ₹200 spent on MakeMyTrip. Cardholders also enjoy perks such as complimentary domestic and international airport lounge access and low foreign exchange markup fees of just 0.99%. However, the card’s value is primarily limited to those who book travel through MakeMyTrip, as the rewards are concentrated within this ecosystem.
ixigo AU Credit Card
Add to Compare
(4.4/5)
Joining Fee
Nil
Renewal Fee
Nil
Reward Type
Reward Points
Welcome Benefits
1000 RPs and Rs. 1000 ixigo Money Voucher on First Transaction Within 30 days of Card Issuance
Card Details +
The AU ixigo Credit Card is the first co-branded card by AU Bank. This card offers great traveling benefits, including zero forex charges, airport lounge access, and discounts while booking with ixigo. One of the most attractive features of this card is that it can be availed as lifetime free. Earn accelerated reward points for travel-related and online spends. Reward points are valid for a period of two years and can be redeemed for travel vouchers and discounts.
Adani One ICICI Bank Platinum Credit Card
Add to Compare
(4.5/5)
Joining Fee
Rs 750 + GST
Renewal Fee
Rs 750 + GST
Reward Type
Adani Reward Points
Welcome Benefits
Hotel Voucher Worth ₹1,000. Flight Voucher Worth ₹2,000 on Spends of ₹10,000.
Card Details +
The Adani One ICICI Bank Platinum Credit Card is an affordable travel-centric credit card designed for users who frequently engage with the Adani ecosystem. With a nominal joining and renewal fee of ₹750 plus GST, it offers welcome benefits worth over ₹5,000 in the form of hotel, flight, and holiday vouchers. Ideal for domestic travelers, the card provides two complimentary domestic airport lounge accesses per quarter, premium lounge upgrades, valet parking, premium parking, and porter services at Adani-managed airports. While it lacks international lounge access and insurance benefits, its reward structure, offering up to 3% Adani Reward Points on Adani ecosystem spends, adds significant value for those who prioritize domestic travel and Adani services.
Adani One Signature Credit Card
Add to Compare
(4.6/5)
Joining Fee
Rs. 5,000 + GST
Renewal Fee
Rs. 5,000 + GST
Best Suited For
Movies | Travel
Reward Type
Adani Reward Points
Welcome Benefits
Hotel and Holiday Voucher Worth ₹2,000 Each. ₹5,000 Flight Voucher on Spends of ₹25,000 Within 60 Days of Card Activation
Card Details +
The Adani One ICICI Bank Signature Credit Card is a premium travel-focused card designed for frequent travelers and those who engage with the Adani ecosystem. With a joining fee of ₹5,000 (waived on spending ₹6 lakh annually), this card offers a wide range of exclusive benefits, including up to 7% Adani Reward Points on Adani ecosystem spends, complimentary domestic and international lounge access, and premium services like valet parking, porter services, and meet-and-greet assistance at Adani-managed airports. Cardholders also enjoy generous welcome benefits worth ₹9,000, movie ticket discounts, and a range of rewards and discounts through the Adani Rewards ULTRA program. While it excels in travel perks and rewards for Adani network users, its limited appeal outside this ecosystem may not suit all users.
Yatra SBI Credit Card
Add to Compare
(3.9/5)
Joining Fee
Rs. 499 + GST
Renewal Fee
Rs. 499 + GST
Reward Type
Reward Points
Welcome Benefits
Get e-gift vouchers from Yatra.com worth Rs 8250/- on paying the membership fee
Card Details +
As is obvious from the name, it is a co-branded credit card by SBI Card launched in collaboration with the travel portal Yatra. It is an entry-level travel credit card and comes with the following travel benefits-
- Gift vouchers worth ₹8,250 from Yatra as a joining benefit.
- Discounts on domestic and international flight bookings via Yatra- ₹1,000 off on domestic flight bookings (minimum transaction of ₹5,000 required) and ₹4,000 off on international flight bookings (minimum transaction of ₹40,000 required).
- 20% off on domestic hotel bookings via Yatra- minimum transaction of ₹3,000 required and max discount capped at ₹2,000.
- Complimentary air accident cover worth ₹50 lacs (applicable in case of loss of life).
Mariott Co-Branded Credit Card:
Marriott Bonvoy HDFC Bank Credit Card
Add to Compare
(4.6/5)
Joining Fee
₹3,000 + GST
Renewal Fee
₹3,000 + GST
Best Suited For
Travel | Shopping | Stays
Reward Type
Reward Points
Welcome Benefits
Free Night Award Valid for One Year at Marriott Hotels. Silver Elite Status in the Marriott Bonvoy Program
Card Details +
The Marriott Bonvoy HDFC Credit Card is a first-of-its-kind co-branded credit card. For the first time, a card has been issued in partnership with a hotel chain. This card offers the Marriott Silver Elite status, which provides discounted stays, dining offers, and a lot more. You are also provided with international and domestic lounge access with this card. One of the most exciting benefits of this card is the welcome gift of 1 Free Night Award. Earn 8 Reward Points per Rs. 150 spent with the Marriott Bonvoy program.
IRCTC Co-Branded Credit Cards:
IRCTC SBI RuPay Credit Card
Add to Compare
(3.8/5)
Joining Fee
Rs. 500 + GST
Renewal Fee
Rs. 500 + GST
Reward Type
Reward Points
Welcome Benefits
350 Reward Points on a Minimum Transaction of ₹500 Within 45 Days of Receiving the Card
Card Details +
IRCTC Rupay SBI Credit Card is very similar to the IRCTC SBI Platinum Credit Card in terms of the benefits that it offers. The travel benefits that this credit card offers are as under-.
- You will receive a 10% value back on rail ticket bookings made on the IRCTC app or website, transferred to your IRCTC loyalty account.
- 1% transaction charges are waived off on rail ticket bookings via the IRCTC app/website.
- Reward Points gained on the card can be redeemed on the IRCTC app or website if the card is linked to the cardholder’s IRCTC account.
HDFC Bank RuPay IRCTC Credit Card
Add to Compare
(4.5/5)
Joining Fee
Rs. 500 + GST
Renewal Fee
Rs. 500 + GST
Reward Type
Reward Points
Welcome Benefits
Amazon voucher worth Rs. 500 on making the first transaction within the first 30 days.
Card Details +
The IRCTC HDFC Bank RuPay Credit Card is a travel credit card that comes with a nominal annual fee of ₹499 plus applicable taxes. The card rewards you in the form of Cash Points, and you can earn up to 5 Cash Points on every ₹100 you spend using it. The following are some of the key features of this card:
- Amazon voucher worth ₹500 as an introductory benefit.
- 1 Cash Point on every retail spend of ₹100.
- 5x Cash Points on IRCTC spends.
- Free railway lounge access four times every year.
- Spend-based renewal fee waiver.
IRCTC RuPay BOBCARD Credit Card
Add to Compare
(4.5/5)
Joining Fee
Rs. 500 + GST
Renewal Fee
Rs. 350 + GST
Reward Type
Reward Points
Welcome Benefits
500 Bonus Reward Points on Spending ₹5,000 Within the First 60 Days of Card Issuance
Card Details +
The IRCTC BOBCARD Credit Card, co-launched by IRCTC and BOBCARD LIMITED, is a valuable choice for frequent railway travelers looking for rewards and perks. With a joining fee of just ₹500, this RuPay credit card provides significant rewards on train bookings through the IRCTC platform, offering up to 40 Reward Points for every ₹100 spent on tickets. Cardholders also earn 4 Reward Points per ₹100 on groceries and 2 points on other purchases. In addition to rewards, the card includes a 1% fuel surcharge waiver, 4 complimentary railway lounge visits annually, and a 1% railway surcharge waiver on IRCTC bookings. Cardholders can redeem points for railway tickets or against their statement balance. With additional perks like lost card liability cover and three lifetime-free add-on cards, this IRCTC BOBCARD Credit Card is an affordable and practical choice for regular commuters.
IRCTC RBL Bank Credit Card
Add to Compare
(4.6/5)
Joining Fee
₹500 + GST
Renewal Fee
₹500 + GST
Reward Type
Reward Points
Welcome Benefits
500 Reward Points
Card Details +
The IRCTC RBL Bank Credit Card, launched by IRCTC and RBL Bank, is a convenient and affordable option for frequent travelers on Indian railways. With a joining and annual fee of just ₹500, this RuPay card is designed for those who regularly book tickets through IRCTC and use public transportation. It offers 5 Reward Points for every ₹200 spent on IRCTC train bookings, redeemable at a value of ₹1 per point on the IRCTC platform. Cardholders also get 2 Reward Points per ₹200 on flights, hotels, and cruises booked via IRCTC and 2 complimentary railway lounge visits each quarter, adding comfort to travel. The card supports UPI payments and features a National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), enabling easy tap-and-pay at metro stations and bus terminals. This is an ideal card for commuters who want to earn rewards and enjoy added travel benefits at a low cost.
Airlines Co-Branded Credit Cards:
KrisFlyer SBI Card Apex
Add to Compare
(4.6/5)
Joining Fee
₹9,999 + GST
Renewal Fee
₹9,999 + GST
Reward Type
KrisFlyer Miles
Welcome Benefits
10,000 KrisFlyer Miles
Card Details +
The KrisFlyer SBI Card Apex is a high-end credit card for frequent Singapore Airlines travelers, offering great perks like bonus KrisFlyer miles, lounge access, and a tier upgrade to KrisFlyer Elite Gold for priority boarding and extra baggage. While it has a high annual fee of ₹9,999, it’s worth it if you fly Singapore Airlines a lot, especially since you can earn 10 miles per ₹200 spent with the airline. However, the card’s 3.5% foreign exchange fee and lack of renewal benefits make it mainly valuable in the first year. This card is ideal if you’re a loyal Singapore Airlines traveler who wants premium benefits.
KrisFlyer SBI Credit Card
Add to Compare
(4.5/5)
Joining Fee
₹2,999 + GST
Renewal Fee
₹2,999 + GST
Reward Type
KrisFlyer Miles
Welcome Benefits
3,000 KrisFlyer Miles
Card Details +
The KrisFlyer SBI Credit Card is a mid-range option tailored for frequent flyers of Singapore Airlines and its group, offering attractive rewards and travel perks. With a joining fee of ₹2,999, cardholders receive 3,000 KrisFlyer Miles upon joining, plus the ability to earn 5 KrisFlyer Miles per ₹200 spent with the Singapore Airlines Group and on international purchases. This card also provides access to airport lounges, including one complimentary domestic lounge visit per quarter and four international visits per year, alongside a Priority Pass membership. Additionally, milestone benefits such as KrisFlyer Elite Silver membership upon spending ₹2.5 lakh and significant insurance coverage make this card ideal for travelers who prioritize miles and travel-related rewards.
6E Rewards XL – IndiGo HDFC Bank Credit Card
Add to Compare
(4.6/5)
Joining Fee
Rs. 1,500 + GST
Renewal Fee
Rs. 1,500 + GST
Reward Type
Reward Points
Welcome Benefits
One complimentary flight ticket worth Rs. 3000 and 6E Prime Add-On.
Card Details +
It is a co-branded travel credit card by HDFC Bank in collaboration with Indigo Airlines. The card is best suited for frequent domestic flyers. The 6E Rewards XL Credit Card is offered in two variants- the free variant (zero membership fee) and the paid variant (membership fee of ₹2,500). The card comes with a plethora of travel benefits, particularly for domestic frequent flyers-
- The card earns reward points as IndiGo 6E Rewards, which are redeemable on the IndiGo 6E Rewards portal for 6E Rewards benefits, including booking Go IndiGo flights.
- As welcome benefits, you get a complimentary IndiGo air ticket and IndiGo Prime Add-on when you make a minimum of 3 transactions within 3 months of card setup. These welcome benefits are applicable for the paid variant of the card only.
- IndiGo 6E Rewards XL cardholders are also entitled to 8 complimentary lounge access every year (max 2 per quarter) at domestic airports across India
- As IndiGo is the country’s largest domestic carrier, this credit card can be a really good choice for those who travel frequently within the country.
6E Rewards – IndiGo HDFC Bank Credit Card
Add to Compare
(4.2/5)
Joining Fee
Rs. 500 + GST
Renewal Fee
Rs. 500 + GST
Reward Type
Reward Points
Welcome Benefits
1 complimentary 6E Prime add-on with priority check-in, complimentary meal, quicker baggage, choice of seat, etc.
Card Details +
It is another co-branded travel credit card issued by HDFC Bank and launched in collaboration with Go Indigo. It is the less premium variant of the 6E Rewards XL card. It also comes in two variants- a free variant and a paid variant (annual fee of ₹700). The 6E Rewards IndiGo card comes with the following travel benefits-
- You earn Reward Points as 6E Rewards on all spending categories (the reward rate is lower than the XL variant, though) and accelerated 6E Rewards on IndiGo ticket bookings.
- 1 complimentary IndiGo Add-on and on making a minimum of 3 transactions in the first three months of card issuance get a complimentary air ticket (worth ₹1,500) (at least 1 transaction per month). The welcome benefits are applicable only for the paid variant.
- The aforementioned travel benefits make this credit card a decent choice in the travel category. However, before making the final decision, you must compare its benefits with those of the more premium XL variant.
Features and Benefits of Travel Credit Cards
Travel credit cards can be either generic or co-branded (launched in partnership with an airline like Air India, or in some cases, IRCTC or even travel portals like MakeMyTrip, Yatra, etc.). Co-branded travel cards, as you can guess, offer special benefits on spends on the partner airline and/or earn rewards as the partner airline’s AirMiles, which are credited to the airline’s frequent flyer program.
Generic travel credit cards, on the other hand, either earn Reward Points at an accelerated on travel-related spends or offer travel-related value-added privileges like complimentary hotel loyalty program membership or a complimentary night stay at partner hotels, etc.
Both co-branded and generic travel credit cards usually offer complimentary airport/IRCTC lounge access and a comprehensive insurance plan along with multiple travel insurance covers. Some of the features and benefits that one expects from a travel credit card are-
Complimentary Lounge Access: Almost all travel credit cards offer complimentary airport or IRCTC railway lounge access. Entry-level and mid-level travel credit cards offer only domestic airport lounge access and IRTC lounge access. At the same time, premium travel cards usually also offer complimentary international airport lounge access or at least a complimentary membership to the Priority Pass lounge program.
AirMiles: This applies only to co-branded travel credit cards. Co-branded travel credit cards launched in collaboration with an airline often earn Reward Points as the partner airline’s AirMiles. For example, GoIndiGo co-branded credit cards by HDFC earn Reward Points as IndiGo 6E Rewards.
Hotel Loyalty Program Membership/Stay Vouchers: Some premium travel credit cards also offer complimentary membership in certain hotel loyalty programs or complimentary stay vouchers at partner hotels. For example, the American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card and the RBL World Safari Credit Card offer complimentary Taj stay vouchers/gift cards.
Welcome/Milestone Benefits: Many travel credit cards offer travel vouchers (like hotel stay vouchers or gift cards) as a welcome benefit upon card membership or as a milestone benefit upon achieving the stipulated spend milestone. Some travel cards also offer complimentary flight ticket(s) as a welcome benefit or as a milestone benefit.
Accelerated Reward Rate on Travel Spends: Some travel credit cards earn Reward Points/Miles at an accelerated rate on travel-related spends.
How to Compare Travel Credit Cards?
Travel credit cards, as you know, offer special travel benefits to cardholders. These benefits may come in a number of different forms, including complimentary airport/IRCTC railway lounge access, complimentary hotel stay vouchers/hotel loyalty program memberships, Reward Points such as AirMiles, bonus Reward Points/Miles on travel spends, etc. Now, since different travel cards come with different types of travel benefits, it is often difficult to compare two credit cards objectively. For example, how would you compare a travel credit card like the American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card, which offers complimentary domestic airport lounge access and Taj Stay vouchers (on meeting the spending targets), with a card like the Axis Atlas Credit Card that earns RPs as EDGE Miles?
If you have to choose a travel credit card for yourself, we would suggest that you be very clear about your requirements- for example, you must decide whether the majority of your trips are going to be only within India or whether you will frequently be traveling to foreign destinations as well. Listed below are some of the pointers, rather some of the parameters, that one must keep in mind to compare travel credit cards and before making a call on which travel credit card will suit you the best-
Co-Branded vs Generic Travel Credit Cards
Many credit card issuers tie up with airlines, IRCTC, or holiday booking portals (like MMT or Yatra) to launch co-branded credit cards. These co-branded cards offer extra benefits on spending at partner merchants. A co-branded credit card may be a good pick for you if you prefer a particular airline over others or if you prefer railways over airways as a mode of transportation.
For example, an IndiGo or KrisFlyer co-branded credit card may be a good pick for a frequent domestic flyer, while an Etihad or Emirates co-branded card might be the best fit for someone who frequently travels to Gulf destinations like Dubai.
On the other hand, a generic travel credit card may be the best-suited one for you if you have no specific preference for a particular airline or travel portal. A generic travel credit card like the AmEx Platinum Travel Credit Card or RBL World Safari Card will almost always offer complimentary access to domestic/international airport lounges and a higher reward rate on travel spends or international transactions made with the card.
Airport/Railway Lounge Access
Almost all travel credit cards offer complimentary airport or railway lounge access. While entry-level and mid-level travel cards usually offer lounge access only at domestic airports or at railway stations, premium travel credit cards also offer complimentary lounge access at international airports or at least complimentary membership of a lounge access program like Priority Pass.
If travel experience matters to you a lot, complimentary lounge access is definitely one of the important factors that you must consider when choosing a travel credit card. If you travel to nearby places within India, an IRCTC co-branded travel credit card that offers complimentary railway lounge access can be a great pick for you. Also, suppose you frequently travel by air within the country. In that case, you may consider a travel credit card that offers complimentary domestic airport lounge access, while you might ignore the international lounge benefit. However, suppose you are a frequent international flyer. In that case, you must make sure that the travel credit card you choose offers a certain number of complimentary airport lounge access at international airports as well.
Another point worth keeping in mind is that if you are looking for a credit card just for the lounge access benefit, sometimes generic credit cards (which are not particularly travel-centric cards) offer more (sometimes even unlimited) lounge access at airports/railway stations. For example, suppose you require a credit card just for railway lounge benefits. In that case, IDFC FIRST Credit Cards offer 4 complimentary IRCTC lounge access every quarter at select railway stations across the country, which is more than what any of the IRCTC co-branded credit cards offer.
Similarly, HDFC Infinia and Diners Club Black Credit Cards offer unlimited international airport lounge access to both primary and add-on card members, a benefit that you do not get with most premium travel credit cards. The following table summarises the railway/airport lounge access feature that you get with the aforementioned travel credit cards-
| Credit Card | Domestic Airport | International Airport Lounge Access | Railway Lounge Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Axis Bank Atlas Credit Card | 8 With Silver Tier, 12 With Gold Tier, and 18 With Platinum Tier (Per Annum) | 4 With Silver Tier, 6 With Gold Tier, and 12 With Platinum Tier (Per Annum) | N/A |
| American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card | 2 Domestic Lounge Access Every Quarter (8 Each Year) | Priority Pass Membership | N/A |
| SBI Card MILES PRIME | 2 Domestic Lounge Access Every Quarter (8 Each Year) | 4 Domestic Lounge Access Every Quarter (1 Each Year) | N/A |
| SBI Card Miles Elite | 8 Visits Each Year (Maximum 2 Per Quarter) | 6 Free Visits Each Year (Maximum 2 Per Quarter) | N/A |
| RBL World Safari Credit Card | 8 Visits Each Year (Maximum 2 Per Quarter) | 2 Each Year | N/A |
| Axis Bank Horizon Credit Card | 6 Per Calender Quarter With Mastercard World Variant and 8 Per Calender Quarter With Visa Signature Variant | 8 Each Year (2 Every Quarter) | N/A |
| MakeMyTrip ICICI Bank Credit Card | 8 Visits Each Year (Maximum 2 Per Quarter) | One Free Visit Each Year | N/A |
| ixigo AU Credit Card | Eight Complimentary Visits Each Year | One Free Visit Each Year | 8 Complimentary Visits Each Year |
| Adani One ICICI Bank Platinum Credit Card | 2 Complimentary Airport Lounge Access | N/A | N/A |
| Adani One Signature Credit Card | 4 Free Domestic Airport Lounge Visits Each Quarter | 2 International Lounge Visits Each Year | N/A |
| Yatra SBI Credit Card | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Marriott Bonvoy HDFC Bank Credit Card | 12 Complimentary Visits Each Year | 12 Complimentary Visits Each Year | N/A |
| IRCTC RuPay SBI Credit Card | N/A | N/A | 4 Complimentary Visits Each Year |
| HDFC Bank RuPay IRCTC Credit Card | N/A | N/A | 8 Complimentary Visits Each Year |
| IRCTC BOBCARD Credit Card | N/A | N/A | 4 Complimentary Visits Each Year |
| IRCTC RBL Bank Credit Card | N/A | N/A | 8 Complimentary Visits Each Year |
| KrisFlyer SBI Card Apex | 2 Visits Each Quarter (8 Annually) | 8 Airport Visits | N/A |
| KrisFlyer SBI Credit Card | 1 Visits Each Quarter (4 Annually) | 4 Airport Visits Abroad | N/A |
| 6E Rewards XL – IndiGo HDFC Bank Credit Card | 8 Visits Each Year (Maximum 2 Per Quarter) | N/A | N/A |
| 6E Rewards – IndiGo HDFC Bank Credit Card | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Hotel Loyalty Program Membership/Hotel Stay Vouchers
Some premium travel credit cards offer complimentary vouchers from premium hotel chains. For example, the American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card, one of the great travel cards in India in the premium segment, offers complimentary Taj Stay vouchers upon meeting spending targets. This benefit may be important for you if you want to enjoy a premium travel experience without any compromises.
Foreign Currency Mark-up
The usual foreign currency mark-up fee, as applicable for most credit cards, is about 3.5% of the conversion amount. Some travel credit cards charge a lower or sometimes even zero mark-up fee on international currency purchases. For example, a zero forex mark-up fee is charged on international transactions done with ixigo AU Credit Card and RBL World Safari Credit Card, while a lower foreign currency mark-up fee of just 2.5% is applicable on 6E Rewards XL – IndiGo HDFC Bank Credit Card. Suppose you are a frequent flyer to global destinations. In that case, you should definitely consider this benefit when choosing a travel credit card for yourself unless you plan to use a prepaid forex card for all foreign currency transactions.
How to Find The Right Travel Credit Cards?
In order to find the right travel credit cards for yourself, you will have to understand your travel requirements first. If you travel very often, you should go with premium travel credit cards irrespective of their higher fees, as you would be able to save even more using these cards if used wisely. On the other hand, if you travel only once or twice every year, you can go with the basic travel cards that come with lower fees and offer 2-4 complimentary lounge access yearly. Other factors that you need to understand are whether you should choose co-branded or non-co-branded cards. If you travel via a particular airline frequently, you can go with a co-branded credit card issued by that airline.
How Do Travel Credit Card Reward Points Work?
Credit Card Points are the rewards you earn when making purchases using your credit card. Some cards offer accelerated rewards in certain categories, and travel credit cards generally come with a higher reward rate in travel categories, such as flight and hotel bookings. These points work as your savings, as they can later be redeemed against many options and even against the card’s outstanding balance. Let us understand this using a simple example.
Suppose you have a credit card that offers air miles on all your spends, and you have earned 10,000 Airmiles so far, with every air mile equivalent to ₹1. Now, if you want to book a flight worth ₹30,000, you can use these Airmiles and pay rest of the amount in cash. This is how you will be able to book a flight worth ₹30,000 with ₹20,000 only. Similarly, you can use Reward Points against other categories as well, such as shopping, dining, etc.
Do’s and Don’ts While Using a Travel Credit Card
It is never a good idea to go with a card without knowing how you can use it for maximum benefits and whether it will be worth it or not. Here are some important do’s and don’ts that you should keep in mind while using a travel card:
Do’s
- Make sure to understand your travel requirements before you choose a travel credit card for yourself.
- If you have complimentary lounge access with your credit card, you should register it as soon as you receive your card or at least understand the process so that you don’t face any difficulties at the last minute.
- Redeem your reward points/Airmiles against a category that gives you the maximum conversion value.
Don’ts
- Never let your rewards/air miles expire without redeeming them for your benefit. You should be aware of the validity of your card’s reward points and redeem them before the expiry date.
- Don’t delay or miss your credit card bill payments, as the additional charges, such as interest and late payment fees, might be even more than the benefits that your card offers.
- Before making any large purchases, check if you can use your rewards to get some vouchers that will reduce your overall spending.
Why Apply for a Travel Credit Card?
Travel credit cards are very advantageous for frequent travelers, but at the same time, you should also keep in mind that these cards generally come with a higher annual fee. So, you should not just go with a travel credit card randomly, but get it only if you are someone who has all the following requirements:
- You travel domestically as well as internationally very often. However, basic cards are always good even if you travel only once or twice every year, but you don’t get a super-premium card with a high annual fee.
- You don’t want to compromise on your luxuries even when you are traveling. One of the biggest reasons travel cards have a high annual fee is that they offer complimentary lounge access and many more exclusive privileges, such as deals and discounts on flights and premium hotel bookings.
- You are a responsible credit card user. If you are not responsible enough to use a credit card, you won’t be able to maximize the benefits of a travel credit card and you will just end up paying a high annual fee without any benefits.
How to Apply for Travel Credit Cards in India?
The application process for a travel credit card, just like any other credit card, is usually very simple. You can apply for travel credit cards through Card Insider-
- Visit the review page of the credit card you want to apply for on Card Insider.
- Click/tap on the “Apply Now” option.
- You will be redirected to the official credit card page on the card issuer’s website.
- You can now proceed with the application on the card issuer’s website by entering the requested details in the designated fields.
- Once you have successfully submitted your credit card application, the card issuer will evaluate it to determine your eligibility for the card you applied for.
- If you are eligible for the card, the card issuer will mail it to our address, usually within 15 days of your application submission.
Best Credit Cards with Zero or Low Foreign Currency Mark-up Fee
Almost all credit cards charge a mark-up fee on foreign currency transactions. The usual mark-up fee is 3.5% of the conversion amount. However, some premium and mid-range travel credit cards have a foreign currency mark-up fee that is either zero or very low. Some such travel credit cards are the RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card and the IndiGo 6E Reward XL HDFC Bank Credit Card.
It is worth noting that some other premium credit cards, in addition to these travel-specific credit cards, offer a lower foreign currency markup. For example, the foreign currency markup fee charged on HDFC Infinia and Diners Club Black Metal Credit Cards is also less than 2%.
Bottom Line
As you can see, there are various credit card sub-categories within the travel category, which are targeted towards specific customer niches. For example, if you’re a frequent domestic flyer, a co-branded credit card by IndiGo or Vistara would make more sense for you than an Emirates of Etihad credit card. Similarly, if you prefer trains over flights, IRCTC cards will best suit your needs. Therefore, it is important to choose the right travel credit card, considering your travel needs.
FAQs:
Travel credit cards usually offer a higher reward rate (be it reward points or cashback) on travel-related spends (flight/hotel bookings). Most travel credit cards also offer additional benefits like concierge service, complimentary airport lounge access, etc. Some premium travel credit cards also offer vouchers and coupons from famous hotel and resort chains. Co-branded travel credit cards offer special benefits to partner airlines/portals.
If you’re a domestic frequent flyer, you may consider the following credit cards: 6E Rewards XL - IndiGo HDFC Bank Credit Card and IRCTC Credit Cards by SBI.
Most premium travel credit cards offer great benefits on international travel-related spending and also provide other benefits like overseas accidental insurance coverage and 24x7 concierge service to cardmembers. Some such travel credit cards are Etihad Guest SBI Premier Card and American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card.
Currently, SBI Card is one of the few card issuers that offers travel credit in collaboration with IRCTC. Two IRCTC co-branded credit cards are currently being offered: IRCTC SBI Card Premier and IRCTC Rupay SBI Credit Card. Other issuers like HDFC, BOBCARD, and RBL Bank also offer IRCTC co-branded credit cards.
Priority Pass is the most extensive independent airport lounge program. Many card issuers offer complimentary Priority Pass membership to their card members. In some cases, you also get complimentary lounge visits under the Priority Pass membership (usually with premium travel cards).
Many premium travel credit cards offer complimentary airport concierge service to cardholders. The concierge not only helps you plan your journey and provides travel-related assistance, but you also get some additional benefits like priority fast-track check-in and priority handling of the check-in luggage, etc., with the airport concierge service.
There is no fixed credit score required for a travel credit card, but you should have a score above 750 for basic travel credit cards and an excellent score (above 800) for premium cards like Diners Club Black Metal Credit Card.
Yes, paying an annual fee for a travel credit card is totally worth it for those who know how to use a card wisely to maximize its benefits. These cards allow you to save a lot if you travel frequently.
Various travel credit cards offer travel insurance coverage, such as coverage against lost tickets, lost/delayed baggage, canceled/delayed flights, etc. Different card issuers can have different policies related to travel insurance, and you can learn about the same by contacting your credit card customer care. If you claim your insurance successfully, you will get a refund in any of the above-mentioned cases.